Bagged filter cartridge, system and method

ABSTRACT

A filter assembly is provided. The filter assembly includes a filter cartridge with a containment bag including a vent port and a support housing, including a split lid.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATION

This patent application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/353,966, filed Jan. 19, 2012, which is nowpending, the entire teachings and disclosure of which are incorporatedherein by reference thereto.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention generally relates to filters and more particularlyrelates to filter cartridges, housings, and the enclosures and relatedconnections for filter elements such as may be employed in industrialprocess filtration.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There are numerous applications for industrial process filtration suchas in the biotech, pharmaceutical, food and beverage industries, to namea few. In these industries, it is relatively common to employcombination adsorption and depth filter media such as the DEPTH-CLEARseries media provided by the present assignee, also referred to asPurolator Liquid Process one of the CLARCOR companies. In this type ofmedia, particles are captured through a combination of mechanicalcapture due to pore size and as well as electro-kinetic adsorption. Forexample, cellulous media and/or synthetic materials and/or combinationsthereof may be used to provide a substrate. Additionally, such materialas activated carbon, clays and other materials may be supported orotherwise integrated into the disc to provide for electro-kineticabsorption.

For example, Purolator Liquid Process has a number of depth filtermodules comprising stacked discs of depth filter sheets that provide forfilter media elements including different series for differentfiltration applications (e.g. P, LE, C, SA, U, and S series). Eachdifferent series may be used for a different application. For example,the SA and U series may be used for removal of carbon particles and lowlevels of moisture that may result from the breakdown of dielectric oil;and therefore, can be used for filtration of a number of oils. Differentgrades and particle removal efficiencies may be obtained in such grades.Also, for example, the DEPTH-CLEAR S series of Purolator Liquid Processmay be used for such applications as beer, wine, juices and cider,chemicals, resins, inks, varnishes and the like to remove particles,micro-organisms, colloids, and pyrogen from critical process streams.The DEPTH-CLEAR C series is a high capacity activated carbon filtermodule built of formed discs that also may be used in a number ofdifferent applications. Also, the DEPTH-CLEAR P and LE series are usedin biotech applications such as for antibiotics, blood products,intravenous solutions, cough syrups and the like. These types of filtermedia elements may be employed in embodiments of the present invention.

Typically, the DEPTH-CLEAR elements and other competitive elements areinstalled in reusable stainless steel housings which provide for washingand cleaning ability. In such existing applications, there isconsiderable downtime associated with filter change out when thesefilter elements become spent. Specifically, change out requiresisolating the housing by shutting off appropriate valves and thencleaning the housing after the filter element is removed by washing outthe unfiltered filtrate contained within the housing.

Also known in the filtration industry are porous filtration bags such asthe DynaClear F and DynaClear M Series of Purolator Advanced Filtrationwhich contain filter media of a certain porosity to allow for high fluidflow at low pressure drops while having a significant contaminantholding capacity through barrier and/or depth filtration. While filterbags work adequate in some applications, it is difficult to obtain asignificant surface area with filter bags. Hence, more compact filterelements such as using stacked discs as in the DEPTH-CLEAR series depthfilter sheets and filter elements described above is often provided toprovide for a compact assembly that provides for a high filtrationcapacity with substantial surface area and flow capacity.

The present invention is directed toward improvements over the state ofthe art.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, an embodiment of a filter cartridge is provided. Thefilter cartridge includes a containment bag. The filter cartridge alsoincludes an inlet port. The inlet port extends through the containmentbag adapted to receive fluid into the bag. The filter cartridge alsoincludes an outlet port. The outlet port extends through the containmentbag adapted to outlet fluid from the filter cartridge. The filtercartridge also includes a vent port. The vent port extends through thecontainment bag. The filter cartridge also includes a filter mediaelement. The filter media element is disposed in the containment bag andis connected to the outlet port.

In another aspect, an embodiment of a filter assembly is provided. Thefilter assembly includes a filter cartridge. The filter cartridgeincludes a containment bag. The filter cartridge also includes an inletport. The inlet port extends through the containment bag adapted toreceive fluid into the bag. The filter cartridge also includes an outletport. The outlet port extends through the containment bag adapted tooutlet fluid from the filter cartridge. The filter cartridge alsoincludes a vent port. The vent port extends through the containment bag.The filter cartridge also includes a filter media element. The filtermedia element is disposed in the containment bag and is connected to theoutlet port. The filter cartridge is supported inside of a housing. Eachof the ports comprises a fitting including an inlet fitting, an outletfitting, and a vent port fitting. The housing includes a bowl having anopen end and split lid having at least two portions that are dividableand joinable. The split lid has an inlet aperture receiving the inletfitting and a vent aperture receiving the vent fitting.

In another aspect, an embodiment of a method of filtering fluid isprovided. The method includes inletting unfiltered fluid into acontainment bag. The method also includes venting air from thecontainment bag. The method also includes containing a filter media packin the containment bag. The filter media pack includes a hollow interiorthat has an opening at one end and is closed to fluid flow at a secondend opposite the one end. The method also includes filtering theunfiltered fluid through a filter media pack contained in thecontainment bag to produce filtered fluid. The method also includesoutletting filtered fluid from the filter element and through saidopening and through the containment bag.

In another aspect, an embodiment of a filter assembly is provided. Thefilter assembly includes a containment bag. The filter assembly alsoincludes an inlet port extending through the containment bag adapted toreceive fluid into the bag. The filter assembly also includes an outletport extending through the containment bag adapted to outlet fluid fromthe filter cartridge. The filter assembly also includes a filter mediaelement disposed in the containment bag and connected to the outletport. The filter assembly also includes a carrier bag adapted to holdand carry the containment bag, the carrier bag having an open top end,the containment bag received through an open top end and being removablethrough the open top end during use.

In yet another aspect, a method of filtering fluid is provided. Themethod includes providing a filter cartridge having an inlet port and anoutlet port. The method also includes providing a carrier bag adapted tocontain the cartridge. The carrier bag has an outlet. The method alsoincludes placing the filter cartridge within the carrier bag. The outletport is arranged to allow passage of filtered fluid to pass through theoutlet port out of the carrier bag. The method also includes placing thecarrier bag with the filter cartridge therein in a housing. The methodalso includes providing unfiltered fluid to the inlet port of the filtercartridge, filtering the fluid through the filter cartridge, and havingthe filtered fluid exit the carrier bag through the outlet. The methodalso includes utilizing the carrier bag to remove the filter cartridgefrom the housing.

In another aspect a housing for containing and supporting a filtercartridge including a filter element housed in a bag, an inlet fittingprojecting from the bag for receiving inlet fluid to be filtered by thefilter element, and a vent fitting projecting from the bag is provided.The housing includes a support housing portion. The support housingportion has an open end. The housing also includes a lid portion. Thelid portion is configured to selectively close the open end of thesupport housing. The lid portion includes a split lid. The split lidincludes at least two portions. The two portions are dividable and areconfigured to be placed in an assembled configuration. In the assembledconfiguration the two portions define an inlet aperture. The inletaperture is configured to receive and maintain in position an inletfitting of a filter cartridge.

Other aspects, objectives and advantages of the invention will becomemore apparent from the following detailed description when taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of thespecification illustrate several aspects of the present invention and,together with the description, serve to explain the principles of theinvention. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is an exploded isometric view of the components of a filterassembly including a filter in combination with a filter supporthousing, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a similar exploded view to that of FIG. 1 except showing apartial cutaway cross-sectional view of the components;

FIG. 3 is a cross section of the filter assembly shown in previousfigures in an assembled state with fluid flow paths indicated;

FIG. 4 is a partial cutaway cross-sectional isometric view of theassembled filter to illustrate how it is installed within a supporthousing in which the support housing is shown in exploded view;

FIG. 5 is a enlarged view of the opposed ends of the filter assemblyshown in FIG. 3 to better illustrate how the inlet fittings are attachedto the bag and show that the bag may contain multiple layers asillustrated;

FIG. 6 is an exploded isometric view of the components of a filterassembly including a filter in combination with a filter supporthousing, in accordance with a second embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 7 is a similar exploded view to that of FIG. 6 except showing apartial cutaway cross-sectional view of the components;

FIG. 8A is an exploded view of a split lid of the support housing ofFIGS. 6 and 7;

FIG. 8B is an exploded view of the split lid of FIG. 8A from theopposite side;

FIG. 9 is a cross section of the filter assembly shown in FIGS. 6 and 7in an assembled state with fluid flow paths indicated;

FIG. 10 is a partial cutaway cross-sectional isometric view of theassembled filter of FIGS. 6-9 to illustrate how it is installed within asupport housing in which the support housing is shown in exploded view;

FIG. 11 is a enlarged view of the opposed ends of the filter assemblyshown in FIG. 9 to better illustrate how the inlet fittings are attachedto the bag;

FIG. 12 is an exploded isometric view of the components of a filterassembly including a filter in combination with a filter supporthousing, in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a similar exploded view to that of FIG. 12 except showing apartial cutaway cross-sectional view of the components;

FIG. 14A is an exploded view of the split lid and cover lid of thesupport housing of FIGS. 12 and 13;

FIG. 14B is a detailed view illustrating various dimensions of the splitlid of FIG. 14A;

FIG. 15 is a cross section of the filter assembly shown in FIGS. 12 and13 in an assembled state with fluid flow paths indicated;

FIG. 16 is a partial cutaway cross-sectional isometric view of theassembled filter of FIGS. 12-15 to illustrate how it is installed withina support housing in which the support housing is shown in explodedview; and

FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of the opposed ends of the filter assemblyshown in FIG. 12 to better illustrate how the inlet and outlet fittingsare attached to the bag and show that the bag may contain multiplelayers as illustrated.

While the invention will be described in connection with certainpreferred embodiments, there is no intent to limit it to thoseembodiments. On the contrary, the intent is to cover all alternatives,modifications and equivalents as included within the spirit and scope ofthe invention as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to the Figures, an embodiment of the present invention hasbeen illustrated as a filter in the form of a filter cartridge 10, thatincludes an enclosure in the form of a bag 12 that encloses a filterelement 14 (also referred to as filter media element). The filterelement 14 includes suitable filter media 15 that providesbarrier/surface loading filtration, depth filtration, adsorptionfiltration, and/or combinations thereof. The filter cartridge 10 can beinstalled in a support housing assembly 16, and thereby provides for afilter assembly (e.g. a combination of the filter and the supporthousing assembly).

Before turning to the details of filter cartridge 10, with reference toFIG. 1, details will be provided about the support housing assembly 16.The support housing assembly 16 may include a support housing 18 and acover 20 that closes the open end 22 of the support housing 18. Asillustrated, the support housing is generally a bowl-like member toinclude a disc-like base 24 and an annular and axially extendingcylindrical side wall 26 extending vertically upward from the base 24 todefine the open end 22. The open end 22 is sized large enough such thatit is adapted to receive the filter cartridge 10 through the open end.Fastener knobs 28 may be provided to releaseably secure the cover 20 tothe support housing 18. The fastener knobs can be manually screwed tomanually secure or release the cover from the support housing.

As illustrated, the cover 20, and base 24 may include respective anddiametrically opposed entrance and exit ports 30, 32 to accommodatefluid flow into and out of the filter cartridge 10. The support housingand cover may comprise stainless steel material or other rigid materialsuch as rolled sheet metal or molded plastics that adequately providessupport to the bag 12 of the filter cartridge 10 when it is filled withfluid, such as liquid. Thus, the support housing 18 generally carriesthe weight of the filter cartridge including the liquid containedtherein and also supports the bag 12 against fluid pressure that isexerted in the filter cartridge 10; and in part, due to the resistanceprovided by the filter element 14. To accommodate the filter cartridge10 and to allow for expansion 12 of the bag, vent openings mayoptionally be provided that are adapted to vent air from inside thehousing when the bag receives unfiltered fluid that causes the bag toexpand and thereby conform substantially to an interior of the housing.This reduces air pockets and/or the size of such air pockets when thefilter cartridge 10 is employed in use within the support housingassembly 16.

Turning in greater detail to the filter cartridge as illustrated inFIGS. 3 and 5, it is seen that the bag 12 acts as an enclosure to fullyenclose the filter element 14. The bag 12 is adapted to receive fluidthrough an inlet port 40 and adapted to return fluid through an outletport 42. The fluid flow path schematically indicated in FIG. 3 at 44 isindicated to run inside the bag from the inlet port to the outlet portand passes through the filter element 14. This provides for anunfiltered fluid chamber 46 for unfiltered fluid between the bag and thefilter element that is in fluid communication with the inlet port 40. Inthe case of an annular filter element 14 as illustrated, the unfilteredfluid chamber 46 generally surrounds the outside of the filter element14 both at opposed ends and the annular space between the bag 12 and thefilter element 14.

A filtered fluid chamber 48 is formed by the filter element with thefilter element interposed between the unfiltered fluid chamber 46 andthe filtered fluid chamber 48 such that fluid flowing along the fluidflow path 44 passes through the filter media 15 of the filter elementfor removal of contaminants. The outlet port is in fluid communicationwith the filtered fluid chamber 48 which in this case is formed by acentral internal cavity 50 formed within the filter element 14.

In a preferred embodiment, the bag 12 is impermeable to the fluid beingfiltered and thereby provides a flexible housing for trapping unfilteredfluid on the upstream side between the filter element and the bag in theunfiltered fluid chamber 46.

As shown, the bag 12 is preferably impermeable and nonporous to thefluid which is being filtered, typically a liquid in preferredembodiments. The bag can be formed from a single sheet 52 of impermeableand flexible plastic material, that may comprise one or more layers andas shown in FIG. 5 that in an embodiment may include a total of threelayers 54, 55, 56. The different layers 54, 55, 56 may be provided for avariety of reasons. While one layer may be sufficient in someapplications preferably at least two layers and in some applicationsthree layers are provided. In the illustrated embodiment shown in FIG.5, a contact barrier layer 54 prevents liquid from escaping from withinthe bag, a gas impermeable layer 55 prevents the migration of air orother gas inside the bag which can prevent oxidation of the liquid beingfiltered, and a structural support layer 56 (that may or may not beimpermeable) is provided to maintain the structural integrity of the bagsuch as when the bag is removed while full of liquid from the supporthousing assembly 16. As such, the structural support layer 56 preferablyforms the outermost layer of the plastic sheet 52 which forms the bag.

The bag 12 can be made by folding the plastic sheet 52 to provide forthe enclosure structure. Specifically, the sides of the plastic sheet 52can be seamed together along vertical seams 58 which may be provided bywelding the plastic material together which sealingly connects andprevents passage of fluid along the vertical seams 58. Similarly, theopposed edges or ends of the plastic sheet 52 may be joined via aplastic weld along a horizontal seam 60 that sealingly connects theopposed edges of the plastic sheet 52. In this manner, a fluidimpermeable enclosure is provided that acts as a flexible housing thatcan conform in substantial shape to the support housing 18 in which itis eventually situated.

With continued reference to FIGS. 3 and 5, to provide for fluid flowinto and out of the bag 12, the bag includes inlet and outlet openings62, 64 (see also e.g. FIG. 2 for outlet opening 64) at opposed top andbottom ends of the bag, respectively. The inlet port 40 extends throughthe inlet opening 62 and the outlet port 42 similarly extends throughthe outlet opening 44 to provide for fluid communication along the fluidflow path 44.

An inlet fitting 66 provides for the inlet port 40. As shown, the inletfitting 66 is connectively sealed to the bag 12 around the inlet opening62 of the bag. In one embodiment, the inlet fitting may comprise amolded plastic member that integrally provides an annular disc 68 thatis plastically welded and sealed to the bag along an annular weld ring70. A tubular hose barb projection 72 projects from the annular disc 68.The hose barb projection 72 includes a hose barb which provides forattachment to an inlet hose 74. It will be appreciated that the fittingmay alternatively be other structures such as a screw thread, fluidcoupling or other surface that is adapted to mate with an upstreamconduit (including simply a smooth surface). A reusable inlet coupler 76may be provided with the support housing assembly 16 for purposes ofensuring a sealing connection between the inlet conduit or hose 74 andthe inlet fitting 66, when in use.

At the outlet end of the bag, a plastic annular disc 80 is integrallyjoined to the bag in surrounding relation of the outlet opening 64. Theannular disc 80 may be joined in a sealing manner to the bag 12 by oneand preferably at least two annular plastic weld rings 82 in which theplastic material of the annular disc 80 and the bag are joined andbonded together. The inner periphery of the annular disc 80 provides asubstantial flange region for sealing engagement. To provide for theoutlet port 42, an outlet fitting 84 is provided. The outlet fitting inthe illustrated embodiment may be connected or integrally provided witha support core 86 that extends up into the filter element 14. The outletfitting 84, in any event, is fluidically connected to the filtered fluidchamber 48 so as to drain filtrate that has passed through the filterelement 14. In this embodiment, the outlet fitting includes a tubularhose barb projection 88 that integrally extends from an annular supportflange 90. As in the case of the inlet fitting, the hose barb projection88 provides a hose barb (or other suitable fitting structures such asthreads, fluid coupling, smooth surface, etc.) that connects with anoutlet conduit such as an outlet hose 92 to thereby outlet filteredfluid from the filter cartridge 12.

Between the barb fitting and the annular flange is interposed a threadedsection 94 that threadingly receives a nut 96. The nut 96 can be screwedonto the outlet fitting 84 and thereby squeeze and compress the annulardisc 80 of the bag and thereby provide for an axial compression seal atthat location. Preferably, the support flange 90 provides for sealmembers such as integrally projecting annular ribs or otherwise gaskets98 that provide for seals along the inner periphery of the bag andprevent for seepage of fluid along this location. By having a projectingstructure such as integral plastic rib and/or gasket, the compressioncan be directed to those locations and thereby provide for axialcompression sealing. The nut 96 may alternatively be joined in any othermanner such as ultrasonic plastic welding, adhesively bonded orotherwise permanently secured to the outlet fitting 84 such thatthreading is not necessarily required. Further, a permanent connectionof the nut 96 can prevent the nut 96 from backing off during use.

Turning in greater detail to the filter element, it should be noted thatany type of filter element may potentially be used to include radialflow elements, axial flow elements, or other such elements dependingupon the application. One preferred and particularly useful form interms of an embodiment of the present invention is an annular filterelement as illustrated that defines and provides for a central internalcavity 50 in which the filter media 15 separates the filtered side fromthe unfiltered side. One end of the annular filter media element may beclosed (either integrally or by a separate member) while the other endcan be open to provide for a regular predetermined flow path from theoutside to the inside according to an embodiment and flow pathillustrated, for example, in FIG. 3.

For example, the filter media element may include a plurality of filterdiscs 100 each containing sheets of filter media 15 such as acombination of adsorption and depth loading filtration media or doing acombination of filtration including particulate filtration as well asadsorption of undesirable molecules on a microscopic level. For example,the filter discs may be any of the DEPTH-CLEAR series filter mediadiscs, that are commercially available from the present assignee,Purolator Liquid Process. In such a filter element arrangement, thefilter discs 100 are stacked in a stack with adjacent filter discs beingseparated by spacer webs (also known as center separators) 102 and alsoalong the inner periphery by rigid plastic sealing spacer rings 104. Theoutside of the filter discs 100 may be joined by seal rings 106. Betweenadjacent filter discs 100 and around the spacer webs (center separators)102 are provided flow passages that drain filtered fluid into the opencentral internal cavity 50 defined within the filter element 14.

The stack of filter discs 100 may be retained together by retainer clips(not shown) that are provided along the inner periphery of the filterdiscs that hold the multiple filter discs together in the stack.Additionally, a support core assembly 110 is provided to secure andsupport the filter element 14 within the bag 12. As shown, the supportcore assembly 110 secures the filter element 14 to the outlet end of thebag, whereas the inlet fitting 66 is freely carried by the bag 12 andfreely movable relative to the filter element through the flexibilityafforded by the bag 12. As a result, this provides for easy installationof the inlet fitting as the relative inlet and outlet fittings can bemoved relative to each other (with the outlet fitting 84 being fixed viathe support core 86 to the filter element 14) and the inlet fitting 66being freely movable through the flexibility of the plastic material ofthe bag 12.

The support core assembly generally includes several different portionsincluding the support core 86, which may integrally provide for theoutlet fitting 84 (either as a unitary one piece structure oralternatively two structures which are joined permanently ornon-permanently together). Additionally, the support core assemblyincludes a compression load member 112 that acts on the end opposite thesupport flange 90. The support flange 90 thereby provides an opposingcompression load member to that of compression load member 112. Thecompression load member 112 is movable axially relative to the supportflange 90 and can be secured to apply a preset axial compression forceto the sealing rings 104 along the inner periphery of the filter discs100. The compression load member 112 also thereby firmly secures thefilter element axially relative to the support core 86. The compressionload member can then be joined to the support core 86 such as by way ofa threaded attachment; or alternatively, away by means of welding suchas infrared or ultrasonic welding done while a preset axial load isapplied to the stack of filter discs.

In the present embodiment, the compression load member is shown to havea threaded connection such that screwing rotation of the compressionload member 112 incrementally moves the threaded load member relative tothe support flange to apply a preset axial compression force limiteddimensionally by the support core (tightening to a predeterminedposition). In one embodiment, the compression load member 112 mayinclude a flange 114 that engages the end sealing ring and therebycloses off the upper end of the filter element and a threaded stem 116that is received into a threaded opening 118 formed at the axial end ofthe support core. Preferably, flange 114 and support flange 90 eachinclude an integral axially projecting annular rib 120 that concentratesthe force and provides an annular sealing contact against the endsealing rings 104 thereby preventing fluid leakage around the ends.

The support core 86 is substantially solid but does include anon-circular periphery with at least one and preferably multiplerecessed regions such as flats 122 along the periphery. The flats 122 incombination with the inner circular periphery of the internal cavity 50of the filter element provides flow channels 124 to facilitate flow offiltered fluid toward the outlet port 42. Radial passages 126 toward thebottom end connect the flow channels 124 to a central axial passage thatextends through the support flange and forms the outlet port 42.

With this arrangement, the filter cartridge 110 provides for a methodfor filtering fluid which includes inletting unfiltered fluid into thebag 12 through the inlet port 40. The unfiltered fluid can then flowthrough the filter media element 14 whereby it is filtered creatingfiltered fluid. Then the filtered fluid can then be outlet through theoutlet port 42. The filter cartridge also completely encases the filtermedia element 14 within the bag 12 with the inlet fitting sealinglyattached to the bag for inletting filtered fluid and the outlet fittingsealingly attached to the bag for outletting filtered fluid.

The present embodiment also provides for a clean change out that doesnot require cleaning of the surrounding support housing assembly 16. Forexample, replacement is made easy in that while the inlet and outletconduits are shut off (e.g. via valves not shown), the filter cartridge10 can be changed by disconnecting the inlet and outlet fittings andremoving the filter cartridge with unfiltered fluid still remaining inthe bag. Thereafter, a new filter cartridge comprising a new bag andencasing a new filter media element along with new inlet and outletfittings can be provided and reconnected to the inlet and outletconduits. A further advantage is that the core also can provide forstructure for pre-compressing the stack of filter discs 100 when in thebag when that type of a filter media element is chosen. Further, thepresent invention can also be used with existing systems that employstainless steel support housing with few modifications and thus not onlyact as a retrofit to providing cleanly replacement for existingapplications, but also provide for applications and new systems as well.

An advantage of the present embodiment is that it isolates leaks fromthe filtrate. If there were a leak in the bag or between the core andthe bag, the filtered fluid (filtrate) is isolated in the outlet portand the unfiltered fluid would not contaminate the filtrate. Instead theunfiltered fluid could spill onto the floor through the central exitopening in the support housing.

Various other advantages and features may be provided. For newapplications, the support housing assembly can be made of less expensivematerials such as using flat and rolled sheet metal for itsconstructions. Due to the bag enclosure of the filter, there are nosealing requirements and therefore no o-rings or valves that can fail.Further, the housings may be stackable and stacked on top of each otherfor expansion.

With reference to FIGS. 6-11, a second embodiment of a filter assemblyis illustrated and includes a filter in the form of a filter cartridge200, that includes an enclosure in the form of a containment bag, suchas a bag 202, that encloses a filter element 204 (also referred to asfilter media element). The filter element 204 includes suitable filtermedia 206 that provides barrier/surface loading filtration, depthfiltration, adsorption filtration, and/or combinations thereof. Invarious embodiments, the filter media 206 may include any suitablenumber of layers (e.g., four, etc.). The filter cartridge 200 can beinstalled in a support housing assembly 208, and thereby provides for afilter assembly (e.g., a combination of the filter and the supporthousing assembly 208).

The filter cartridge 200 and the filter cartridge 10 include manysimilarities. Therefore, in the following description of the filtercartridge 200, differences from the filter cartridge 10 are the focus ofthe description below. Features of the filter cartridge 200 notdiscussed below may be similar to features of the filter cartridge 10described above.

Similarly, the support housing assembly 208 and the support housingassembly 16 also include many similarities. The description of thesupport housing assembly 208 also focuses on differences from thesupport housing assembly 16. Features of the support housing assembly208 not discussed below may be similar to features of the supporthousing assembly 16 described above.

In one embodiment, the filter assembly also includes a carrier bag, suchas an open-topped bag 210, which may receive the filter cartridge 200therein, and which, with the filter cartridge 200 therein, may be placedin the support housing assembly 208. The open-topped bag 210 may also beadapted to be used by a user to facilitate removal of the filtercartridge 200 from the support housing assembly 208.

Generally, an embodiment of the open-topped bag 210 is described,followed by a description of an embodiment of the support housingassembly 208, including a description of an embodiment of a split lid,followed by a description of an embodiment of the filter cartridge 200.

With further reference to FIG. 6, the open-topped bag 210 is anenclosure with an open top sized to receive the filter cartridge 200therein. The filter cartridge 200 can then be carried and, along withthe open-topped bag 210 placed in the support housing 212. In oneembodiment the open-topped bag 210 is formed from material that is bothflexible and fluid impermeable. The open-topped bag 210 may including asingle layer of material or multiple layers of material. The open-toppedbag 210 may be formed from any suitable material, such as, e.g., variousplastics, heavy polyester, polyester fibers, polyethylene terephthalate,vinyl, nylon, rubber, etc. In one embodiment, the open-topped bag 210also includes a handle 258. The handle 258 may be integrally formed withthe open-topped bag 210 or may be attached to the open-topped bag 210 byany suitable mechanism, such as, e.g., heat welding, thermoplasticwelding, attachment with adhesive, etc. The handle 258 may be formedfrom the same material as the open-topped bag 210 or may be formed froma different suitable material, such as, for example, various plastics,vinyl, nylon, rubber, etc. The handle 258 is arranged with respect tothe open-topped bag 210 such that the open-topped bag 210 carrying thefilter cartridge 202 may be easily maneuvered by a user grasping thehandle. In one embodiment, the open-topped bag 210 includes a secondhandle generally on the opposite side of the open-topped bag 210 fromthe handle 258 to allow for two-handed carrying and maneuvering of theopen-topped bag 210. In one embodiment, the open-topped bag 210 isdesigned to be of strong and sturdy construction and to carry at least100 pounds therein without failure or breakage of the open-topped bag210 or the handle 258. In one embodiment, the open-topped bag 210 issized with generally the same dimensions as the interior of the supporthousing 212.

With further reference to FIG. 7, the open-topped bag 210 includes anoutlet aperture 258 defined in the bottom of the open-topped bag 210. Aplastic annular disc 260 is integrally coupled with the open-topped bag210 in surrounding relation with the outlet aperture 258. The annulardisc 260 may be joined in a sealing manner to the open-topped bag 210 byone or more annular plastic weld rings in which the material of theopen-topped bag 210 and the annular disc 260 are bonded together. Theoutlet aperture 258 is sized to allow a nut 310 and a portion of theoutlet fitting 298 to pass therethrough, as illustrated in FIG. 9 andfurther described below.

Before turning to the details of the filter cartridge 200, a furtherdescription of an embodiment of the support housing assembly 208 isprovided. With reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, the support housing assembly208 includes a support housing 212 and a split lid 214 that closes theopen end 216 of the support housing 212. As illustrated, the supporthousing 212 is generally a bowl-like member, including a disc-like base218 and an annular and axially extending cylindrical side wall 220extending vertically upward from the base 218 to define the open end216. The open end 216 is sized to receive the filter cartridge 200 and,in one embodiment, the open-topped bag 210 containing the filtercartridge 200, through the open end 216. Extending radially outwardlyfrom the upper end of the cylindrical side wall 220 is a radiallyextending flange 217. The radially extending flange 217 defines aplurality of threaded apertures 219. The threaded apertures 219 areconfigured to receive and cooperatively threadingly engage thedownwardly projecting threaded portions of fastener knobs 254, allowingthe fastener knobs 254 to secure the split lid 214 to the supporthousing 212. In one embodiment the support housing 212 may be formedfrom polypropylene. In another embodiment the support housing 212 may beformed from metal, such as, for example, stainless steel. The supporthousing 212 may be formed from any corrosion resistant material capableof withstanding pressure, e.g., corrosion resistant steel, fiberreinforced plastic, etc.

The filter element 204 has an outer diameter D₁. The support housing 212has an inner diameter D₂. In one embodiment the inner diameter D₂ isbetween approximately 8 inches and 16 inches. In another embodiment theinner diameter D₂ is between approximately 10 inches and 14 inches. Inanother embodiment the inner diameter D₂ is approximately 12 inches. Thefilter element 204 and support housing 212 are sized such that outerdiameter D₁ is smaller than inner diameter D₂ and that the supporthousing 212 is sized to support the filter cartridge 200. Additionally,the support housing 212, with its inner diameter D₂, is configured suchthat the bag 202 is supported by the surface of the sidewall 220 and thebase 218 when the interior of the bag 202 is under pressure duringfiltering providing strength and allowing for filtering processes whichplace the interior of the bag 202 at pressures in one embodiment of upto approximately 40 PSI (pounds per square inch) and in anotherembodiment at pressure of up to approximately 100 PSI.

The filter element 204 has a height H₁. The support housing 212 has aheight H₂. In one embodiment the height H₂ is between approximately 20inches and 30 inches. In another embodiment the height H₂ is betweenapproximately 22 inches and 26 inches. In another embodiment the heightH₂ is approximately 24 inches. The filter element 204 and the supporthousing 212 are sized such that the filter element 204 may fit withinthe support housing 212, with the inlet 269 and vent 282 fittingslocated proximate the cover 214 and disposed in the apertures definedtherein, as will be further described below.

The split lid 214 is configured to seal the open end 216 of the supporthousing 212. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the split lid 214 defines aninlet aperture 222 and a vent aperture 224, spaced apart from the inletaperture 224. The inlet aperture 222 is configured to receive an inletfitting, as will be further described below, to allow unfiltered fluidto flow into the support housing assembly 208. The vent aperture 224 isconfigured to receive a vent fitting, as will be further describedbelow, to allow gas to escape from the bag 202 from the support housingassembly 208.

With reference to FIGS. 7, 8A, and 8B, in one embodiment, the split lid214 includes a first lid portion 226 and a second lid portion 228. Thefirst and second lid portions 226 and 228 are generally semi-circularlydisc-shaped and are configured to cooperatively fit to form a generallycircular disc, sized to close the open end 216 of the support housing212. The first lid portion 226 includes a generally vertical wallportion 230, which, when the split lid 214 is assembled, is configuredto abut a matching generally vertical wall portion 232 of the second lidportion 228.

As best illustrated in FIG. 8A, the generally vertical wall portion 230of the first lid portion 226 includes a plurality of projectionreceiving apertures 234 extending generally perpendicularly to thegenerally vertical wall portion 230 into the first lid portion 226. Asbest illustrated in FIG. 8B, the generally vertical wall portion 232 ofthe second lid portion 228 includes a plurality of projections 236extending from the generally vertical wall portion 232 generallytransversely thereto. The projections 236 are arranged and shaped tomatch and be received by the projection receiving apertures 234 of thefirst lid portion 226 to releasably join the second lid portion 228 tothe first lid portion 226 to form the split lid 214. While fourprojection receiving apertures 234 and four projections 236 areillustrated in FIGS. 7, 8A, and 8B, any suitable number of projections236 and projection receiving apertures 234 may be provided.Additionally, other suitable mechanisms for joining the first lidportion 226 with the second lid portion 228 may also be used.Additionally, in other embodiments, the split lid may be formed fromvarious other suitable numbers of releasably coupling, matching, orinterfitting lid portions.

With reference to FIG. 8A, the generally vertical wall portion 230includes a semi-cylindrical recessed portion 223. The first lid portion226 also includes a top surface 227 extending generally transverselyfrom the generally vertical wall portion 230. Extending upwardly fromthe top surface 227 of the first lid portion 226 is a semi-cylindricalvent wall 240. The interior surface of the semi-cylindrical vent wall240 is aligned with the recessed portion 223 of the generally verticalwall portion 230. The semi-cylindrical vent wall 240 and the recessedportion 223 of the generally vertical wall portion 230 together define asemi-cylindrical vent aperture 238.

With reference to FIG. 8B, the generally vertical wall portion 232 ofthe second lid portion 228 also includes a semi-cylindrical recessedportion 229. The second lid portion 228 also includes a top surface 231extending generally transversely from the generally vertical wallportion 232. Extending upwardly from the top surface 231 of second lidportion 228 is another semi-cylindrical vent wall 244, the interiorsurface of which is aligned with the recessed portion 229 of thegenerally vertical wall portion 232. The semi-cylindrical vent wall 244and the recessed portion 229 of the generally vertical wall portion 230together define another semi-cylindrical vent aperture 242.

With reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the first and second lid portions 226and 228 are arranged such that when they are joined to assemble thesplit lid 214, the surfaces defining the semi-cylindrical vent apertures238 and 242, i.e., the interior surfaces of the semi-cylindrical ventwalls 240 and 244 and the recessed portions 223 and 229, align totogether define the vent aperture 224 illustrated in FIG. 6.

With further reference to FIG. 8A, the generally vertical wall portion230 includes a semi-cylindrical recessed portion 245, spaced apart fromthe semi-cylindrical recessed portion 223. Extending upwardly from thetop surface 227 of the first lid portion 226 is a semi-cylindrical inletwall 248, the interior surface of which is aligned with thesemi-cylindrical recessed portion 245 of the generally vertical wallportion 230. The interior surface of the semi-cylindrical inlet wall 248and the semi-cylindrical recessed portion 245 together define asemi-cylindrical inlet aperture 246, spaced apart from thesemi-cylindrical vent aperture 238.

With reference to FIG. 8B, the generally vertical wall portion 232 ofthe second lid portion 228 also includes a semi-cylindrical recessedportion 247, spaced apart from the semi-cylindrical recessed portion229. Extending upwardly from the top surface 231 of the second lidportion 228 is another semi-cylindrical inlet wall 252, the interiorsurface of which is aligned with the semi-cylindrical recessed portion247 of the generally vertical wall portion 232. The interior surface ofthe semi-cylindrical inlet wall 252 and the semi-cylindrical recessedportion 247 together define a semi-cylindrical inlet aperture 250.

With reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the first and second lid portions 226and 228 are arranged such that when they are joined to assemble thesplit lid 214, the surfaces defining the semi-cylindrical inletapertures 246 and 250, i.e., the interior surfaces of thesemi-cylindrical inlet walls 248 and 252 and the semi-cylindricalrecessed portions 245 and 247 align to together form the inlet aperture222 illustrated in FIG. 6.

As is illustrated in FIGS. 7, 8A, and 8B, the first lid portion 226includes a generally rectangular cutout portion 231 spanning along of aportion of the generally vertical wall portion 230, on a side of thegenerally vertical wall portion 230 distal from the top surface 227. Ascan be seen in FIG. 8B, the second lid portion 228 includes a similar,matching cutout portion 233.

With reference to FIGS. 7, 8A, and 8B, a split slat portion 283 isprovided. The split slat portion 283 includes a first portion 285,adapted to be received into the generally rectangular cutout 231 of thefirst lid portion 226, and a second portion 287, adapted to be receivedinto the rectangular cutout 233 of the second lid portion 228. The firstportion 285 includes in its face proximate the second portion 287, afirst recessed wall portion 291 and a second recessed wall portion 293spaced apart from the first recessed wall portion 291. The secondportion 287 includes in its face proximate the first portion 285 a firstrecessed wall portion 295 and a second recessed wall portion 297 spacedapart from the first recessed wall portion 295. The first recessed wallportions 291 and 295 are cooperatively arranged such that when the firstportion 285 and the second portion 287 are received into the cutouts 231and 233 in the first lid portion 226 and the second lid portion 228respectively, and the first and second lid portions 226 and 228 areplaced to cover the opening 216 in the support housing 212, the firstrecessed wall portions 291 and 295 cooperatively form an aperture, suchthat the vent aperture 224 is not blocked by the split slat portion 283and remains accessible. Similarly, the second recessed wall portions 293and 297 are cooperatively arranged such that when the first portion 285and the second portion 287 are received into the cutouts in the firstlid portion 226 and the second lid portion 228 respectively, and thefirst and second lid portions 226 and 228 are placed to cover theopening 216 in the support housing 212, the second recessed wallportions 293 and 297 cooperatively form an aperture, such that the inletaperture 222 is not blocked by the split slat portion 283 and remainsaccessible. The first and second split slat portions 285 and 287 may bewelded to the first and second lid portions 226 and 228 respectively orjoined to the lid portions 226 and 228 by any other mechanism known inthe art (e.g., adhesive, interference fit, etc.).

With further reference to FIG. 7, the support housing assembly 208 alsoincludes a cover lid portion 221. The cover lid portion 221 is generallydisc-shaped. The cover lid portion 402 defines a plurality of attachmentapertures 227 spaced apart about proximate its radial periphery. In oneembodiment the cover lid portion 402 defines threading lining theattachment apertures 227. In another embodiment the cover lid portion402 does not define threading and defines a generally uniform surfacelining the attachment apertures 227. The cover lid portion 221 alsoincludes an inlet aperture 223 and a vent aperture 225 spaced apart fromthe inlet aperture 223. The inlet aperture 223 is sized such that thesemi-cylindrical inlet walls 248 and 250, when the split lid 214 is inan assembled configuration, may pass through the inlet aperture 223 ofthe cover lid portion 221. The vent aperture 225 of the cover lidportion 221 is sized such that the semi-cylindrical vent walls 240 and244, when the split lid 214 is in an assembled configuration, may passthrough the vent aperture 225 of the cover lid portion 221.

The cover lid portion 221 has a thickness T₁. In one embodiment, thethickness T₁ is between approximately 0.5 inches and 3.0 inches. Inanother embodiment, the thickness T₁ is between approximately 1.0 inchesand 2.0 inches. In another embodiment, the thickness T₁ is approximately1.5 inches. In one embodiment, the cover lid portion 221 is formed frompolypropylene. However, in other embodiments, the cover lid portion 221may be formed from metal (e.g., stainless steel), suitable plastics, orany other suitable material. The cover lid portion 221 is configured toprovide support to the split lid 214 during filtering.

Returning to FIG. 6, in one embodiment, the fastener knobs 254 include abolt portion having an outer threaded periphery. The bolt portion passesthrough an attachment aperture 227 in the cover lid portion 221, througha threaded attachment aperture 255, releasably threadingly engaging withthe attachment aperture 255 of the split lid 214 and through a threadedaperture 219 defined in the flange 217 of the support housing 212,releasably threadingly engaging therewith to secure the cover lidportion 221 and the split lid 214 to the support housing 212.

With reference to FIG. 7, the base 218 of the support housing 212includes an exit port 256 to accommodate fluid flow out of the filtercartridge 200 and the support housing 212. In one embodiment, thesupport housing 212 and split lid 214 may be formed from stainless steelmaterial or other rigid material such as, for example, rolled sheetmetal, molded plastics, polypropylene, etc., that adequately providesupport to the bag 202 of the filter cartridge 200 when it is filledwith fluid, such as liquid. The support housing 212, similar to thesupport housing 18 of the previous embodiment described above, generallycarries the weight of the filter cartridge 200, including the liquidcontained therein and supports the bag 202 against fluid pressure thatis exerted in the filter cartridge 200. As in the previous embodiment,vent openings may be provided in the support housing 212.

With reference to FIGS. 6-11, the filter cartridge 200 is described.

With specific reference to FIG. 9, the filter cartridge 200, as in theprevious embodiment, includes an inlet opening 264. The bag 202 isadapted to receive fluid through an inlet port 266. The inlet port 266extends through the inlet opening 264. An inlet fitting 268 provides forthe inlet port 266. The inlet fitting 268 is connectively sealed to thebag 202 around the inlet opening 264 of the bag 202. In one embodimentthe inlet fitting 268 may include a molded plastic member that providesan annular disc 270. A tubular hose barb projection 272 projects fromthe annular disc 270. The hose barb projection 272 includes a hose barbwhich provides for attachment to an inlet hose 274 by a sleeve andcollet mechanism 276, such as, for example a BARBLOCK® sleeve and colletmechanism sold by Barblock Corporation. The use of other sleeve andcollet mechanisms is also envisioned. It will be appreciated that thefitting may alternatively be other structures such as a screw thread,fluid coupling or other surface that is adapted to mate with an upstreamconduit (including simply a smooth surface). The sleeve and colletmechanism 276 provides a sealing connection between the inlet conduit orhose 274 and the inlet fitting 268 when in use.

With further reference to FIG. 9, the filter cartridge 202 also includesa vent opening 278. In one embodiment, the vent opening 278 is spacedapart from the inlet opening 264. Generally, the vent opening 278 isprovided such that during times in which pressure within the bag 202 isincreased, e.g., when fluid begins to enter the bag 202 through theinlet opening 264, the vent opening 278 may be used to vent gas from thebag 202 as the fluid enters the bag 202. The bag 202 is adapted to ventthrough a vent port 280. The vent port 280 extends through the ventopening 278. A vent fitting 282 provides for the vent port 280. The ventfitting 282 is connectively sealed to the bag 202 around the ventopening 278 of the bag 202. In one embodiment the vent fitting 282 mayinclude a molded plastic member that provides an annular disc 284. Atubular hose barb projection 286 projects from the annular disc 284. Thehose barb projection 286 includes a hose barb which provides forattachment to a vent hose 288 by a sleeve and collet mechanism 290. Itwill be appreciated that the fitting may alternatively be otherstructures such as a screw thread, fluid coupling or other surface thatis adapted to mate with an upstream conduit (including simply a smoothsurface). The sleeve and collet mechanism 290 provides a sealingconnection between the vent conduit or hose 288 and the vent fitting 282when in use.

While the vent fitting 282 is illustrated in the drawings as smallerthan the inlet fitting 268, each fitting may be any suitable sizerelative to one another. The vent fitting 282 is illustrated as locatedspaced apart from, proximate to the inlet fitting 268 on the bag 202. Inother embodiments, the vent fitting 282 is located in other suitablelocations relative to the inlet fitting 268.

Venting of gas from the interior of the bag 202 through the vent fitting282 and out to the vent hose 288 may be controlled by a suitable valve,e.g., an on/off valve, which may be manually or electronicallyactuatable between open and closed configurations. In one embodiment,upon entry of fluid through the inlet opening 264 into the bag 202, auser may open the suitable valve and allow gas to escape from theinterior of the bag for a suitable period of time and then close thesuitable valve.

With further reference to FIGS. 6-11, the inlet fitting 268 and the ventfitting 282 project upwardly from the bag 202. When the bag 202 islocated in the support housing 212, with the fittings 268 and 282projecting upwardly, the first and second lid portions 226 and 228 ofthe split lid 214 can be moved together such that the vent fitting 282(and a portion of the sleeve and collet mechanism 290) is disposedwithin the vent aperture 224 and the inlet fitting 268 (and a portion ofthe sleeve and collet mechanism 276) is disposed within the inletaperture 222 when the generally vertical wall portions 230 and 232 ofthe first and second lid portions 226 and 228 are placed in abuttingrelationship to close the open end 216 of the support housing 212. Inone embodiment the fittings 268 and 282, with portions of the sleeve andcollet mechanisms 276 and 290, may fit securely within the apertures 222and 224. In other embodiments, the inlet hose 274 may be placed withinthe inlet aperture 222 in fluid communication through the inlet fitting268 with the inside of the bag 202. In other embodiments, the vent hose288 may be placed within the vent aperture 224 in fluid communicationthrough the vent fitting 282 with the inside of the bag 202.

With reference to FIGS. 7-11, similarly to the previous embodiment, thebag 202 includes an outlet aperture 292. A plastic annular disc 294 isintegrally joined to the bag 202 in surrounding relation of the outletaperture 292. The annular disc 294 may be joined in a sealing manner tothe bag 202 similarly to the previous embodiment. The inner periphery ofthe annular disc 294 provides a substantial flange region for sealingengagement. The bag 202 is adapted to return fluid through an outletport 296. To provide for the outlet port 296, an outlet fitting 298 isprovided. The outlet fitting 298 is in fluid communication with thefiltered fluid chamber 300. The outlet fitting 298 includes a tubularbarb projection 302 that extends from an annular support flange 304. Asin the case of the inlet fitting, the tubular barb projection 302provides a hose barb (or other suitable fitting structures such asthreads, fluid coupling, smooth surface, etc.) that connects with anoutlet conduit such as an outlet hose, through, for example, a sleeveand collet mechanism 306 or other suitable mechanism, to thereby outletfiltered fluid from the filter cartridge 200.

As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 11, between the barb fitting and theannular flange 304 is interposed a threaded section 308 that threadinglyreceives a nut 310. The nut 310 can be screwed onto the outlet fitting298. As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 11, as the nut 310 is screwed ontothe outlet fitting 298 it thereby squeezes and compresses the annulardisc 294 of the bag 202, providing for an axial compression seal at thatlocation. In one embodiment, the outlet fitting includes a sealingelement, in the illustrated embodiment a pair of radially spaced apartsealing elements, such as sealing gaskets, illustrated as O-rings 311.These O-rings may be compressed by the nut 310 forcing the annular disc294 of the bag 202 against a portion of the outlet fitting 298, thus,allowing for a fluid-tight seal and assisting with prevention of leakageof unfiltered fluid from the interior of the bag 202 out of the bag 202.As in the previous embodiment, various other sealing mechanisms may beprovided. In one embodiment, the nut 310 may be alternatively joined inany other manner with the outlet fitting 298 such as ultrasonic plasticwelding, adhesively bonded, or otherwise secured to the outlet fittingsuch that threading is not necessarily required. In one embodiment, apermanent connection of the nut 310 can prevent the nut 310 from backingoff during use.

While the filter element 204 is not further described with respect tothis embodiment, the filter element 204 may have similar properties andstructures as described with respect to the previous embodiment. Forexample, as illustrated in FIG. 9, fluid has similar fluid flow pathsthrough the assembly as in the previous embodiment. Additionally, itshould be noted that any type of filter element may be used to includeradial flow elements, axial flow elements, or other such elementsdepending upon the application.

With regard to FIGS. 12-17, another embodiment of a filter assembly isdescribed. In these figures another embodiment of a support housingassembly is illustrated. This embodiment of a support housing assemblymay be used with the previously described filter cartridge 200 or otherembodiments of filter cartridges.

The support housing assembly includes a support housing 414 and a lidportion 400 that closes the open end 418 of the support housing 414. Thesupport housing 414 is generally a bowl-like member, including adisc-like base 420 and an annular and axially extending cylindrical sidewall 422 extending generally vertically upward from the base 420 todefine the open end 418. The side wall 422 may be integrally formed withor coupled to the base 420 by any suitable mechanism. In one embodimentthe side wall 422 is coupled to the base 420 by welding. Other suitablecouplings may also be used. The open end 418 is sized to receive afilter cartridge and, in one embodiment, an open-topped bag containing afilter cartridge through the open end 418. Extending radially outwardlyfrom the upper end of the cylindrical side wall 422 is a radiallyextending flange 424. The radially extending flange 424 defines aplurality of threaded apertures 426. While four threaded apertures 426are illustrated in FIG. 12, other suitable numbers and configurations ofapertures are envisioned. The radially extended flange 424 may beintegrally formed with the cylindrical side wall 422 or may be coupledwith the cylindrical side wall 422 by any suitable mechanism, e.g.,welding, adhesive, etc. The threaded apertures 426 are configured toreceive and cooperatively threadingly engage threaded portions offasteners, such as eyebolts 412, allowing the eyebolts 412 to secure thelid portion 400 to the support housing 414 to seal the open end 418 ofthe support housing 414. Additionally, other mechanisms of securing thelid portion 400 to the support housing 414 are also envisioned.

In one embodiment, the support housing 414 may be formed frompolypropylene. In another embodiment the support housing 212 may beformed from metal, such as, for example, stainless steel. The supporthousing 212 may be formed from any corrosion resistant material capableof withstanding pressure, e.g., corrosion resistant steel, fiberreinforced plastic, etc.

The support housing 414 has an inner diameter D₃. In one embodiment theinner diameter D₃ is between approximately 8 inches and 16 inches. Inanother embodiment the inner diameter D₃ is between approximately 10inches and 14 inches. In another embodiment the inner diameter D₃ isapproximately 12 inches. The support housing 414 is sized to receive andsupport a filter cartridge. Additionally, the support housing 414, withits inner diameter D₃, is configured such that a bag enclosing a filter,such as, for example, bag 202, is supported by the sidewall 422 and thebase 420 when the interior of the bag 202 is under pressure duringfiltering providing strength and allowing for filtering in the interiorof the bag 202 to take place with the pressures in the interior of thebag in one embodiment of up to approximately 40 PSI (pounds per squareinch) and in another embodiment at pressure of up to approximately 100PSI.

The support housing 414 has a height H₃. In one embodiment the height H₃is between approximately 2 inches and 30 inches. In another embodimentthe height H₃ is approximately 4.25 inches. In another embodiment theheight H₃ is approximately 9.5 inches. In another embodiment the heightH₃ is approximately 13.5 inches. In another embodiment the height H₃ isapproximately 24 inches. The support housing 414 is sized such that afilter element may fit within the support housing 414, with the inletand vent fittings of the filter element located proximate the cover 400and disposed in the apertures defined therein, as will be furtherdescribed below. Filter cartridges of various suitable sizes may be usedin some embodiments based on the height H₃ of the embodiment of thesupport housing. Additionally, in one embodiment the support housing 414may be mounted on legs which support the support housing.

The lid portion 400 is configured to seal the open end 418 of thesupport housing 414. The lid portion 400 includes a lower split lidportion 404 and an upper cover lid portion 402. With reference to FIG.14A, the cover lid portion 402 is generally disc-shaped. The cover lidportion 402 defines a plurality of attachment apertures 410 spaced apartproximate its radial periphery. In one embodiment, the attachmentapertures may be spaced apart approximately every 15° around theperiphery of the cover lid portion 402. Other arrangements, spacings,numbers of attachment apertures, and configurations are also envisioned.In one embodiment the cover lid portion 402 may define threading liningthe attachment apertures 410. In another embodiment the cover lidportion 402 may not define threading, but instead define a generallyuniform surface lining the attachment apertures 410. The cover lidportion 402 also includes a vent aperture 428 and an inlet aperture 430spaced apart from the vent aperture 428. In one embodiment the center ofthe vent aperture 428 is positioned between approximately 1 and 8 inchesfrom the center of the inlet aperture 430. In another embodiment, thecenter of the vent aperture 428 is positioned approximately 3.95 inchesfrom the center of the inlet aperture 430. In one embodiment, the inletaperture 430 is centered in the center of the cover lid portion 402,with the vent aperture 428 being offset therefrom. Other arrangementsand configurations of the vent and inlet apertures 428 and 430 are alsoenvisioned.

In one embodiment, the vent aperture 428 has a diameter of between 0.5inches and 3 inches. In another embodiment, the vent aperture 428 has adiameter of approximately 1.5 inches. In one embodiment, the inletaperture 430 has a diameter of between 1 and 5 inches. In anotherembodiment, the inlet aperture has a diameter of approximately 3 inches.

The cover lid portion 402 has a thickness T₂. In one embodimentthickness T₂ is between approximately 0.25 and 1 inch. In anotherembodiment thickness T₂ is approximately 0.62 inches. In one embodiment,the cover lid portion 402 is between approximately 12 and 20 inches indiameter. In another embodiment, the cover lid portion 402 isapproximately 16 inches in diameter. In one embodiment, the cover lidportion 402 may include chamfered radial peripheral edges.

The cover lid portion 402 may be formed from metal (e.g., stainlesssteel), plastic, polypropylene, or any other suitable material. Thecover lid portion 402 also includes a pair of handles 415 extendingupwardly from the cover lid portion 402. The handles 415 are configuredto allow a use to easily lift the cover lid portion 402. The handles 415may be integrally formed with the cover lid portion 402 or may beattachment by any suitable means, e.g., welding, adhesive, etc.

With reference to FIG. 14B, the split lid portion 404 includes a firstlid portion 406 and a second lid portion 408. The first and second lidportions 406 and 408 are generally semi-circularly disc-shaped and areconfigured to cooperatively fit together and form a generally circulardisc, sized to close the open end 418 of the support housing 414. In oneembodiment, the first and second lid portions 406 and 408 aresubstantially similar. Therefore, the first lid portion 406 isdescribed, with the second lid portion 408 being substantially similarthereto.

The first and second lid portions 406 each have a thickness T₃. In oneembodiment thickness T₃ is between approximately 1 and 3 inches. Inanother embodiment thickness T₃ is approximately 2 inches.

With reference to FIGS. 14A and B, the first lid portion 406 includes agenerally vertical wall portion 432, which, when the split lid 404 isassembled, is configured to abut a matching generally vertical wallportion of the second lid portion 408. The generally vertical wallportion 432 includes a generally semi-cylindrical recessed portion 434.The semi-cylindrical recessed portion 434 includes a lowersemi-cylindrical recessed wall portion 436 and an upper semi-cylindricalrecessed wall portion 438 defining a semi-cylindrical aperture 435. Theupper semi-cylindrical recessed wall portion 438 has a diameter D₁. Inone embodiment diameter D₁ is between approximately 0.25 and 1.25inches. In another embodiment diameter D₁ is approximately 0.5 inches.The lower semi-cylindrical wall portion 436 has a diameter D₂. In oneembodiment diameter D₂ is between approximately 0.25 and 1.25 inches. Inanother embodiment diameter D₂ is approximately 0.8 inches. The uppersemi-cylindrical wall portion 438 has a height H₁. In one embodiment,height H₁ is between approximately 0.25 and 2 inches. In anotherembodiment, height H₁ is approximately 1.25 inches. The lowersemi-cylindrical wall portion 436 has a height H₂. In one embodiment,height H₂ is between approximately 0.25 and 2 inches. In anotherembodiment, height H₂ is approximately 0.75 inches.

When the first and second lid portions 406 and 408 are assembled thewall portions 436 and 438 of each lid portion 406 and 408 align to forma vent aperture. When the cover lid 402 is assembled with the first andsecond lid portions 406, this vent aperture will align with the ventaperture 428 in the cover lid 402.

The generally vertical wall portion 432 includes another generallysemi-cylindrical recessed portion 440 spaced apart from thesemi-cylindrical recessed portion 434. The semi-cylindrical recessedportion 440 includes a lower semi-cylindrical recessed wall portion 442and an upper semi-cylindrical recessed wall portion 444 defining asemi-cylindrical aperture 441. The upper semi-cylindrical recessed wallportion 444 has a diameter D₃. In one embodiment diameter D₃ is betweenapproximately 0.25 and 2.0 inches. In another embodiment diameter D₃ isapproximately 1.15 inches. The lower semi-cylindrical wall portion 442has a diameter D₄. In one embodiment diameter D₄ is betweenapproximately 0.25 and 2.5 inches. In another embodiment diameter D₄ isapproximately 1.75 inches. The upper semi-cylindrical wall portion 444has a height H₃. In one embodiment, height H₃ is between approximately0.25 and 2 inches. In another embodiment, height H₃ is approximately 0.5inches. The lower semi-cylindrical wall portion 442 has a height H₄. Inone embodiment, height H₄ is between approximately 0.25 and 2 inches. Inanother embodiment, height H₄ is approximately 1.5 inches.

When the first and second lid portions 406 and 408 are assembled thesurfaces 442 and 444 of each lid portion 406 and 408 align to form aninlet aperture. When the cover lid 402 is assembled with the first andsecond lid portions 406, this inlet aperture will align with the inletaperture 430 in the cover lid 402.

In on embodiment, in the assembled configuration of the first and secondlid portions 406 and 408, the centers of the vent aperture and the inletaperture are spaced apart between approximately 1 and 7 inches. Inanother embodiment, the centers of the vent aperture and the inletaperture are spaced apart approximately 3.95 inches. In one embodiment,in the assembled configuration of the first and second lid portions 406and 408, the split lid has a diameter of between approximately 12 and 20inches. In another embodiment, in the assembled configuration of thefirst and second lid portions 406 and 408, the split lid has a diameterof approximately 16.06 inches.

In one embodiment, the split lid 404 may be formed as a single piece andsplit into first and second lid portions 406 and 408 by watelj et cut orany other suitable method.

The first and second lid portions may each be formed from varioussuitable materials, e.g., stainless steel, other metals, polypropylene,other plastics, fiber reinforced plastic, other corrosion resistantmaterials, etc.

The first and second lid portions 406 and 408 each define spaced apartaround their radial periphery a plurality of threaded fastener receivingapertures 407. In one embodiment the threaded fastener receivingapertures 407 may be spaced apart approximately every 15° around theradial periphery. In other embodiments, other numbers of apertures,arrangements, configurations, and spacings are also envisioned. When thesplit lid 404 and the cover lid 402 are assembled, the attachmentapertures 410 in the cover lid 402 may be aligned with the apertures inthe split lid 404. Fasteners such as eye bolts 412 may be passed throughthe attachment apertures 410 of the cover lid 402 and threadingly engagethe fastener receiving apertures 407 of the split lid 404. The eye bolts412 further pass through the fastener receiving apertures 407 and arereceived into and threadingly engage with the threaded apertures 426defined in the flange 424 of the support housing 414 (see FIG. 16).Thus, the cover lid 402, the split lid 404, and the support housing 414may be releasably secured and held in place relative to one another.

With further reference to FIGS. 15 and 16, the first and second lidportions 406 and 408 are arranged and configured such that in theirassembled configuration, inlet and vent fittings of a filter cartridge,such as inlet and vent fittings 268 and 282 (and, in one embodiment,portions of sleeve and collet mechanisms 276 and 290) are held securelywithin the inlet and vent aperture formed by the assembled first andsecond lid portions 406 and 408 and are securely maintained in positionunder the conditions of filtering. The vent and inlet apertures 428 and430 in the cover lid portion 402 are sized and configured to overlay theinlet and vent apertures of the first and second lid portions 406 and408 in the assembled configuration and allow access to allow inlet andvent conduits to be put into fluid communication with the inlet and ventfitments 268 and 282.

With reference to FIGS. 13-15, when the split lid 404 is placed in theassembled configuration, the vent fitment 282 may be arranged such thatthe lid portions 406 and 408 may be moved together with the vent fitment282 being located and securely retained within the vent aperture formedby the semi-cylindrical recessed wall portions 434 of each of the lidportions 406 and 408. The semi-cylindrical recessed wall portions 434are sized, arranged, and configured to securely retain the vent fitment282 (and, in one embodiment, a portion of the sleeve and colletmechanism 290) therein. Similarly, when the split lid 404 is placed inthe assembled configuration, the inlet fitment 268 may be arranged suchthat the lid portions 406 and 408 may be moved together and secured inthe assembled configuration with the inlet fitment 268 being located andsecurely retained within the inlet aperture formed by thesemi-cylindrical recessed wall portions 440 of each of the lid portions406 and 408. The semi-cylindrical recessed wall portions 440 are sized,arranged, and configured to securely retain the inlet fitment 268 (and,in one embodiment, a portion of the sleeve and collet mechanism 276)therein.

In one embodiment, the characteristics of the split lid 404 and thesupport housing 414 (and in some embodiments the cover lid 402) providereliable retention of inlet and vent fitments 268 and 282 of filtercartridges disposed within the support housing 414 during filteringallowing for continued supply of fluid to be filtered to the interior ofa filter cartridge as well as support for a bag of a filter cartridge bythe support housing 414 under filtering conditions. In one embodiment,the cover lid 402, the split lid 404, and the support housing 414 areconfigured to support the bag and fitments of a filter cartridgedisposed in the support housing when filtering conditions create apressure of at least 40 PSI (pounds per square inch) within a bag of afilter cartridge. In another embodiment the cover lid 402, the split lid404, and the support housing 414 are configured to support the bag andfitments of a filter cartridge disposed in the support housing whenfiltering conditions create a pressure of up to 100 PSI within a bag ofa filter cartridge. Specific configurations of embodiments the supporthousing 414 and the split lid 404 (and in some embodiments the cover lid402) provide various embodiments with performance characteristicsdescribed.

Gaskets, such as annular gaskets, may be provided around the upper andlower periphery of the split lid portion 404 in the assembledconfiguration to provide sealing between the split lid portion 404 andthe cover lid portion 402 and between the split lid portion 404 and theflange 424. In other embodiments, the split lid portion 404 and thecover lid portion 402 may seal to one another without the use of agasket. In other embodiments the split lid portion 404 may seal to theflange 424 without the use of a gasket.

All references, including publications, patent applications, and patentscited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent asif each reference were individually and specifically indicated to beincorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein.

The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in thecontext of describing the invention (especially in the context of thefollowing claims) is to be construed to cover both the singular and theplural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted bycontext. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing”are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, butnot limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of valuesherein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referringindividually to each separate value falling within the range, unlessotherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated intothe specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methodsdescribed herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwiseindicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The useof any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”)provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the inventionand does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unlessotherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construedas indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice ofthe invention.

Preferred embodiments of this invention are described herein, includingthe best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the invention.Variations of those preferred embodiments may become apparent to thoseof ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. Theinventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations asappropriate, and the inventors intend for the invention to be practicedotherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, thisinvention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subjectmatter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicablelaw. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in allpossible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unlessotherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

1-30. (canceled)
 31. A filter cartridge, comprising: an enclosure havinga top end and a bottom end; an inlet port at the top end adapted toreceive fluid into the enclosure; an outlet port at the bottom endadapted to outlet filtered fluid from the filter cartridge; a vent portat the top end adapted to vent gas from the bag; and a filter mediaelement disposed in the enclosure and connected to the outlet port. 32.The filter cartridge of claim 31, wherein the filter media element is anannular filter media element including a plurality of filter discs, thefilter discs being stacked, wherein the filter media element furthercomprises a filtered fluid chamber, a top of the filtered fluid chamberbeing closed inside the enclosure, a bottom of the filtered fluidchamber being in fluid communication with outlet port, wherein anunfiltered fluid chamber for unfiltered fluid is between the enclosureand the filter media element in fluid communication with the inlet portand the vent port; the filter media element interposed between theunfiltered fluid chamber.
 33. The filter cartridge of claim 31, furthercomprising an outlet fitting connected with a filtered fluid chamber.34. The filter cartridge of claim 31, wherein the enclosure is acontainment bag comprising a sheet of impermeable and flexible plasticmaterial.
 35. The filter cartridge of claim 34, further comprising aninlet fitting providing the inlet port, the containment bag having aninlet opening and being connectively sealed to the inlet fitting, theinlet port extending through said inlet opening into an interior of thecontainment bag.
 36. The filter cartridge of claim 35, furthercomprising a vent fitting providing the vent port, the containment baghaving a vent opening separate from the inlet opening and beingconnectively sealed to the vent fitting, the inlet port extendingthrough said inlet opening into an interior of the containment bag. 37.The filter cartridge of claim 34, wherein the vent port and the inletport are freely movable relative to outlet port via the sheet ofimpermeable and flexible plastic material.
 38. An assembly comprisingthe filter cartridge of claim 31, and further comprising a carrier bagadapted to hold and carry the filter cartridge the carrier bag having anopen top end, the filter cartridge received through an open top end andbeing removable through the open top end during use.
 39. The assembly ofclaim 38, wherein the carrier bag comprises a handle.
 40. The assemblyof claim 38, wherein the carrier bag has a strength to hold at least 100pounds.
 41. A filter assembly comprising the filter cartridge of claim31, and further comprising: a support housing comprising a bowl definingan open end, the filter cartridge removably supported inside of thesupport housing and being receivable and removable through the open end.42. The filter assembly of claim 41, wherein the bowl defines acylindrical wall having a flange surrounding the open end, furthercomprising a cover seated upon the flange and enclosing the filtercartridge inside of the support housing, fasteners releaseably securingthe cover to the support housing through fastener openings in theflange.
 43. The filter assembly of claim 41, wherein each of the portscomprises a fitting including an inlet fitting, an outlet fitting and avent port fitting, and a split lid having at least two portions that aredividable and joinable, the split lid having an inlet aperture receivingthe inlet fitting and a vent aperture receiving the vent fitting. 44.The filter assembly of claim 43, wherein a first of the at least twoportions defines a first portion of the inlet aperture and the ventaperture, and wherein a second of the at least two portions defines asecond portion of the inlet aperture and the vent aperture.
 45. Thefilter assembly of claim 43, wherein one of the dividable and joinableportions includes at least one projection and another one of thedividable and joinable portions includes at least one projectionreceiving aperture adapted to receive the at least one projection andjoin the dividable and joinable portions.
 46. A filter assemblycomprising: a filter cartridge comprising a containment bag; an inletport extending through the containment bag adapted to receive fluid intothe bag; an outlet port extending through the containment bag adapted tooutlet fluid from the filter cartridge; a filter media element disposedin the containment bag and connected to the outlet port; and a carrierbag adapted to hold and carry the filter cartridge and support thecontainment bag thereof, the carrier bag having an open top end, thefilter cartridge received through an open top end and being removablethrough the open top end.
 47. The filter assembly of claim 46, whereinthe carrier bag comprises a handle.
 48. The filter assembly of claim 46,wherein the carrier bag has a strength to hold at least 100 pounds. 49.The filter assembly of claim 46, wherein the carrier bag comprises anoutlet opening in a bottom end thereof receiving an outlet fitting ofthe filter cartridge.
 50. A method of using the filter assembly of claim46, comprising placing the filter cartridge within the carrier bag;placing the carrier bag with the filter cartridge therein in a supporthousing; providing unfiltered fluid to the inlet port of the filtercartridge, filtering the fluid through the filter media element, andhaving the filtered fluid exit through the outlet port.
 51. The methodof claim 50, wherein the carrier bag comprising a bottom opening andfurther comprising arranging the outlet port to allow passage offiltered fluid to pass through the bottom opening through the carrierbag.
 52. The method of claim 50, further comprising utilizing thecarrier bag to remove the filter cartridge from the housing after thefiltering.
 53. The method of claim 52, further comprising removing thefilter cartridge from the carrier bag, installing a new filter cartridgeinto the carrier bag and reusing the carrier bag.
 54. The method ofclaim 50, wherein the filter cartridge comprises an annular filter mediaelement defining an internal cavity providing a filtered fluid chamberfor filtered fluid, one end of the internal cavity being closed and theother end being open and connected to the outlet port.
 55. The method ofclaim 54, wherein the annular filter media element includes a pluralityof filter discs, the filter discs being stacked and compressed betweenthe opposed ends, each of the filter discs including a combination ofadsorption and depth loading filtration media.